Where are the VIN and Engine Number Located?
2 Answers
Locating the Engine Model: The engine model can be found on the outer surface of the engine block, vehicle registration certificate, vehicle license, purchase invoice, factory certificate, operation certificate for commercial vehicles, vehicle purchase tax payment certificate, registration with public security authorities, vehicle insurance card, and the actual engine (usually on the engine nameplate). The engine number, like a person's ID number, represents each vehicle and contains crucial information about it. Locating the VIN: The VIN can be seen on the vehicle's production nameplate. The Vehicle Identification Number is the same as the VIN. It can also be found on the inner side of the windshield near the driver's seat, consisting of letters and numbers. Opening the engine hood will also reveal the VIN in the engine compartment. The VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number, is a designated code created by manufacturers to identify vehicles. The VIN is stamped on the vehicle's frame. The exact location varies by manufacturer, so refer to your vehicle's manual for specifics. Engine models are identification codes assigned by manufacturers according to regulations, industry practices, and engine attributes. These codes indicate details like the manufacturer, specifications, performance, features, technology, purpose, and batch of the engine, including fuel type, cylinder count, displacement, and static brake power. Engines installed in passenger cars or multi-purpose vehicles must display the manufacturer, model, and production number as required. The VIN, commonly referred to as the frame number, is technically the Vehicle Identification Code, a unique alphanumeric sequence assigned by the manufacturer. The VIN consists of 17 characters, also known as the 17-digit identification code, frame number, or 17-digit number. The combination of these characters ensures that no two vehicles of the same model will have the same number within 30 years, making it a unique identifier akin to a 'vehicle ID card.' Common locations include the vehicle license and the lower left side of the front windshield. Note that the engine number is not the same as the engine model. The engine model refers to the specifications and size within the manufacturer's lineup, and multiple engines can share the same model. The engine number, however, is a unique production code assigned to each individual engine. Engine Number Composition: Front Section: Includes product series code, generation symbol, and regional or manufacturer code, chosen by the manufacturer but standardized and registered with the relevant industry authority. Middle Section: Comprises symbols for the number of cylinders, cylinder arrangement, stroke, and bore diameter. Rear Section: Includes symbols for structural and usage characteristics. End Section: A distinguishing symbol. Manufacturers may add symbols to differentiate improved versions, separated from the rear section by a hyphen if needed. The VIN consists of 17 characters divided into three parts. Part 1: WMI—World Manufacturer Identifier (positions 1-3); Part 2: VDS—Vehicle Descriptor Section (positions 4-9); Part 3: VIS—Vehicle Identifier Section (positions 10-17).
I've been driving for decades, and the common location for the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is at the lower left corner of the front windshield, visible through the glass—it looks like a string of alphanumeric characters. The engine number, on the other hand, is located in the engine compartment. After opening the hood, you can usually find it on the top of the engine or the side of the engine block, though the exact position may vary depending on the car model. For instance, some older vehicles also have it engraved on the chassis. It's advisable to wear gloves when searching to avoid getting your hands dirty from engine oil, or you can check the vehicle registration certificate or insurance documents for a backup. Remembering these numbers is crucial—whether you're buying a used car or handling an accident, you'll need to verify them to avoid being scammed. Some newer cars may also have the VIN on the driver's side door frame, so take a quick look there during inspection.